Belfast boat builder behind inspirational ‘community currach’ honoured by PM May
A BELFAST woman has been honoured by the Prime Minister after she brought a community together to build a traditional Irish boat.
Niamh Scullion (41) was given a Points of Light award by Theresa May for working with 80 volunteers to craft a currach.
Ms Scullion said: “This award, in recognition of the project and our charity Lagan Currachs, is wonderful for us to receive and it is testament to the amazing people of Belfast who have helped bring this idea to life and nurtured it and made it thrive.
“We hope many others will hear about the community currach through this award and come and join the crew — especially those who might be struggling.
“We want them to come and experience the adventure, the mental health benefits, the sense of connection and belonging to a big, open and supportive team and the love of a boat that has become such a huge part of our lives.”
The 10-metre craft was launched on the River Lagan in January last year after the team of volunteers received £15,000 funding from Heritage Lottery.
More than 1,000 people, many with disabilities or from disadvantaged backgrounds with no experience of rowing, have used the currach on Belfast Lough and around the coast of Northern Ireland.
In a personal letter to Ms Scullion, Mrs May said: “By bringing your local community together to build a traditional currach, you have helped people from all ages and backgrounds to access rowing and enjoy the beautiful coasts and waters of Northern Ireland.”
The Points of Light award recognises “outstanding volunteers” who make a change in their community and are an inspiration to others.